Top 5 Modern Shakespeare Film Adaptations

As someone that has a love for English Literature, I can appreciate the beautiful language of Shakespeare. However, more modern audiences may find Shakespere's work more relatable in a new present-day setting. This has certainly worked for the directors of these films; I have compiled a list that I think do a particularly creative or entertaining altercation of these classic stories/plays. 

1. Romeo + Juliet (1996)

Baz Lehrmann's stunning modern day retelling of Romeo and Juliet is truly sensational. I think the decision to keep the original screenplay for the dialogue of the film, is it's greatest success. Set beautifully against a modern 90's Verona backdrop, the film blends the old with the new seamlessly. The gorgeous cast and clever uses of pacing in the edit, make this film stand out against other adaptations. Baz Lehrmann is one of my favourite directors, forever pushing forward with elaborate sets and creative ideas. This film was also mentioned on my Top 10 Favourite Films list -- go check that out too!

2. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

A favourite at every teenage sleepover, this film rocks! A modern rendition of Shakespeare's 'The Taming of the Shrew' tells the story of how young Bianca is told by her overprotective father that she is only allowed to date boys if her sister (the rebellious Kat) does also. Heath Ledger and Joseph Gordon-Levitt star as this movies main heart-throbs and the cast as a whole all deliver the emotion usually associated with Shakespeare, whilst also playing up to the fact that this was originally one of Shakespeare's more comedic plays. 10 Things I Hate About You will always be a hit in my house. 

3. The Lion King (1995)

How could I not mention this one?! This 'Hamlet' inspired Disney film will forever continue to break my heart time and time again. This retelling of one of Shakespeare's most famous tragedies has that pivotal scene that has scarred children everywhere since it's release in 1995. Arguably one of Disney's most popular films, you cannot deny that this film delivers, bringing music, laughter, battle scenes and brother betrayal all in one. Watching main character Simba go from young cub to King of the Pridelands whilst defeating guilt and the villainous Scar, all proves that this film really does portray the 'circle of life'. 

4. The Tempest (2010)

After having to watch this film as a part of my English A-level I must say I was pleasantly surprised. Modern VFX really play to the stories strengths and helps to bring the characters and the magic involved in the play to life, without becoming gimmicky. Traditionally the main character of 'Prospero' is a male role, however the female director decided that bringing in a strong female actress may make more impact therefore this film tells the story of 'Prospera' played by the magnificent Helen Mirren. The rest of the narrative remains close to the original, but again brings a diverse and innovative new variation of this classic tale.

5. She's the man (2006)

Another one of Shakespeare's comedies, this 2006 adaptation of 'Twelfth Night' provides just that, despite perhaps losing some of Shakespeare's original wit to make it more inclined towards a modern audience. The character of Eunice is a particular favourite of mine. Starring Amanda Bynes (a true mid-2000's teen icon) and a young Channing Tatum sheds a new light on the complicated tumultuous relationships included in this play. Viola (Bynes) disguises herself as her twin brother Sebastian in order to prove that she is capable of playing in the boys soccer team. A bit of a win for the ladies, it still contains a sappy happy ending! 

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I debated about including the 1998 romantic drama 'Shakespeare in Love' on this list, however as it is more of a fictional take on Shakespeare's love life as a young writer rather than an adaptation of one of his plays, this film sadly did not qualify for this list. I hope you do approve of my pickings though, I do recommend you watch them all, the comedies in particular make for great easy Sunday afternoon watching. 

Until next time, 

Charlotte